The Xingguang Church in Xiamen city meets in a residence because they refuse to join the government-sanctioned Three-Self Patriotic Movement. On 3 May, security officers burst into the home while the church was gathered for worship. The Christian men who had been guarding the door were pinned down and worshippers were forcefully dragged out of the home.
Calling the meeting illegal, the officers demanded that church members stop recording with their mobile phones and then confiscated them.
Throughout the proceedings, no warrant was presented. At least three of the Christians were injured and one had to seek medical treatment. Six of the worshippers were detained for several hours before being released that evening. The authorities have issued an order officially banning the church gathering.
Sources: VOM Australia, China Aid, Christian Post, International Christian Concern
Pray that the members of the Xingguang Church will find ways to continue encouraging one another and thus grow stronger in their Christian faith.
Pray that the members who were hurt will experience the Lord’s healing.
Pray that the church in China would continue to grow despite the opposition to the Gospel.